A SEAMLESS EXTENSION: JULY COTTAGE SHOWCASES MARLEY’S NEW AUTUMN BRINDLE TILE

Building Products Index Ltd Roof tiles, Roofing, Tiles Leave a Comment

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Located in the picturesque village of Great Chesterford, July Cottage recently underwent an extension project to create a stunning new annex building. With the owners looking to blend traditional roofing aesthetics with a refreshed and contemporary finish, the project provided the perfect opportunity to showcase Marley’s new Autumn Brindle colourway from its Acme Single Camber clay plain tile range.

Choosing the right tile

White Roofing Services Ltd, the project’s roofing contractors, needed to find the perfect roof tile to bring the owner’s vision for the new annex to life; while ensuring it was in-keeping with the existing property. Having worked with Marley for over 20 years, the contractors requested a sample of its new Autumn Brindle Single Camber clay plain tile.

Ryan Farrington, Director at White Roofing Services, said: “The client was instantly impressed with the rich, varied tones, and the way the Autumn Brindle tile complemented the existing house and surrounding environment.”

Following the sample request, the decision was made to specify Marley’s Autumn Brindle tiles across the annex’s 140m2 roof.

Ryan added: “With the tile offering a variety of tones, not only did they look great, but because they were machine made, they were also straightforward to install – making it easy to achieve a consistent finish.

“And the end result speaks for itself – a beautiful extension that fits perfectly with the character of July Cottage.”

Commitment to quality and sustainability

Manufactured in the UK using the high-quality, natural Staffordshire Etruria Marl clay, Marley’s Autumn Brindle tiles not only offer a traditional, eye-catching aesthetic, but also ensure durability and long-lasting performance.

Simon Nicholls, Area Specification Manager for Marley said: “The Acme Single Camber tiles are lightweight, yet highly durable, making them an excellent choice for both new builds and refurbishments, such as July Cottage. The precision-moulded single camber profile also offers exceptional water-shedding properties, ensuring long-lasting performance.”

Recognising the importance of sustainability, Marley also offers Environmental Product Declarations across its entire clay, and concrete tile ranges, together with its existing Marley SolarTile® EPD. EPDs provide contractors and specifiers with the information they need to make environmentally responsible product choices. Accredited to the BES 6001 Framework Standard for Responsible Sourcing, also means that projects using Marley’s Acme Single Camber clay tiles can get extra credits under BREEAM.

As Marley continues to innovate and expand its range of roofing solutions, the Autumn Brindle colourway is already proving to be a popular choice amongst roofers and homeowners alike. With its ease of application, rich natural tones and seamless integration with traditional and modern homes, it stands as a testament to Marley’s dedication to quality.

For more information, or to request a sample of the new Autumn Brindle range, visit Marley’s website.

Ion Glass Celebrates 20 Year Anniversary

Building Products Index Ltd Architectural Glass, Glass Leave a Comment

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Leading structural glass specialist Ion Glass is proud to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year.  Since it’s inception in 2005 the company has developed an unrivalled reputation for bespoke glass installations, especially within the conservation, heritage and ecclesiastical sector.

Over the past two decades Ion has really pushed the boundaries in structural glass, with successful projects in many different environments from castles, cathedrals and churches through to commercial properties, colleges and private homes.

‘Reaching 20 years is a milestone that reflects not only our expertise but the relationships we have built with so many of our clients,’ said Peter Hazeldean, Founder and MD of Ion Glass.  ‘I am so proud of what we have achieved over the last two decades and especially of the architectural glass that is a lasting testament to our endeavours.’

Since its inception, Ion Glass has developed an unrivalled reputation in the heritage sector, transforming spaces in Durham Castle, Caerphilly Castle, Chichester Cathedral, Canterbury Cathedral and St David’s Cathedral amongst others.  Ion has worked in National Trust properties, Glyndebourne Opera House and some of the UK’s best loved museums and galleries, including installing the magnificent Rotunda Staircase in Tate Britain.

But Ion is not just about high profile public buildings.  ‘I love that our structural glass installations have transformed so many churches across the UK with glass doors and porches,  internal screens dividing up spaces and balustrades across mezzanine floors.  Ion’s designs and installations contribute to making the buildings more manageable, meeting current needs and helping achieve environmental goals.’

‘We love to push the boundaries and achieve results in structural glass that might initially seem impossible,’ continued Peter, ‘Our technicians regularly work on glass structures with individually designed glass beams and fins; challenging curves and spirals or unusual, often ground-breaking specifications.  For instance, we created a series of huge corrugated glass panels set on a mirrored backdrop to install an impressive and wholly unique entrance for a commercial building in Reading – we were delighted with the result and so was the client!’

‘Over the last twenty years we have made a difference to the way  many people  enjoy their homes, installing frameless glazed links, glass porches, doors and  balustrades, along with individually designed shower enclosures and leisure areas – no two jobs are ever the same!

Based in East Sussex, Ion primarily serves the extended South East region but their bespoke approach means they regularly travel throughout the UK and have fulfilled many projects overseas, including the South of France, the Alps, the Middle East and a luxury residence in Nigeria.

Looking ahead, Ion Glass is excited about the future, especially as the benefits of structural glass as a building material, both in domestic environments and the heritage sector are becoming increasingly apparent.   ‘Our wholly bespoke approach and continual focus on innovation, design and detail sets us apart ’ said Peter.  ‘We have recently expanded our team to meet current demand and are very much looking forward to the next twenty years.’

For more information about Ion Glass and to visit their extension portfolio of projects visit www.ionglass.co.uk.

Why SAS Render Systems Is Devon’s Best Render Supplier

Building Products Index Ltd Render Leave a Comment

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When it comes to choosing a render supplier in Devon, builders, applicators, and contractors need more than just a product – they need a partner. That’s where SAS Render Systems stands out.

Based in Devon and proudly manufacturing as many of our products as possible in the UK, we’ve become a trusted name for quality, reliability, and expert support. But what exactly makes SAS the best render supplier in Devon? Here’s how we stack up against the rest.

 

  1. Complete Systems, Not Just Products

Most render suppliers will sell you bags of render – we deliver complete systems. At SAS, our ProRend, ProBead, and ProWall products are designed to work together seamlessly. That means less guesswork, better results, and guaranteed compatibility from substrate to finish coat.

Other suppliers might offer base coats and topcoats separately, often from different manufacturers, leading to mixed system issues or warranty voids.

  1. Fast Local Supply — Backed by UK Manufacturing

We stock key products right here in Devon, with fast lead times and reliable availability. And because SAS manufactures many of its products in the UK, you’re never waiting on overseas imports or stuck with supply chain delays.

Many Devon suppliers rely on European brands. That can mean longer lead times, limited colour choices, and uncertainty during peak seasons.

  1. Free Training and Technical Support

Rendering is skilled work, and our job is to support you at every stage. We offer FREE training days with industry expert Gerry Gould, on-site support, and clear installation guidance.

Other brands often pass the buck to distributors for support. At SAS, the support comes directly from the source — no middlemen.

  1. A Brand Built for the Trade

From our ProBead render profiles (cut-resistant, trade-preferred) to ProRend Colourtex (pre-coloured, low-maintenance render), our systems are designed for professionals who need systems that perform.

We don’t just talk trade — we work with applicators, architects, and builders across the Southwest every day.

Larger brands might feel faceless, focused on national merchants or big box stores. With SAS, you get direct relationships and real people.

  1. Colour Choice + Customisation

Want a white silicone render? Easy. Need something bold? Our custom colour matching and wide ProRend Colourtex range offer real design flexibility.

Many suppliers offer limited shades or fixed colour charts, requiring large minimum orders for bespoke blends.

  1. Sustainability & Compliance

Our systems are designed to withstand rigorous testing and meet stringent standards for thermal, fire, and moisture resistance. We’re invested in sustainable UK production, cutting haulage emissions and supporting local jobs.

Imported systems often carry a higher carbon footprint and less control over compliance.

Why Devon’s Trades Trust SAS

  • Free training for applicators
  • UK-made systems built for British conditions
  • Consistent stock, fast lead times
  • Technical support from render experts
  • Preferred by contractors, architects & developers

Ready to Switch to SAS?

Whether you’re quoting a single house or a large development, SAS has the tools, products, and people to support you.

Adapting to Modern Roofscapes: Dani Alu’s Panorama P-ST Freestanding Balustrade

Building Products Index Ltd balustrades Leave a Comment

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As buildings evolve, so too does the way we use rooftops. From green spaces and terraces to outdoor work and leisure areas, today’s roofscapes demand safety solutions that are as adaptable as the spaces themselves.

That’s where Panorama P-ST comes in. Dani Alu’s innovative freestanding balustrade system has been designed specifically for flat roofs, providing reliable balustrading without penetrating the roof surface. By preserving the waterproofing and roof integrity, Panorama P-ST offers complete peace of mind for architects, contractors, and building owners.

Stability is ensured through a carefully engineered ballasted design, making compliance with BS6180 straightforward. The system is suitable for a wide range of applications, including green roofs, gravel finishes, and independent terraces. Each installation is project specific, meaning the balustrade can be adapted to suit both the layout and the individual requirements of the building.

But Panorama P-ST offers more than just safety. Its clean, integrated design gives a professional architectural finish, with multiple configuration options to complement both new build and refurbishment projects.

Key benefits of Panorama P-ST:

  • Freestanding design — no roof penetration required
  • Ballasted for stability and compliance with BS6180
  • Suitable for green roofs, gravel finishes, and independent terraces
  • Project-specific layouts tailored to each building
  • Clean, professional finish with multiple configuration options

The recent installation on a striking rooftop building is a clear example of how Panorama P-ST brings together function, flexibility, and visual appeal in a single system.

To discuss your next project, contact our technical team on 01865 595160.

A Landmark Reborn

Building Products Index Ltd waterproofing Leave a Comment

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PermaQuik Hot-Melt Waterproofing from Radmat plays a key role on The Whiteley redevelopment in London’s Queensway.

Architect: Foster + Partners | Main Contractor: Laing O’Rourke

Radmat products used:

EshaFlex 370 Waterproofing System

PermaQuik Hot Melt System

ReadySeal Liquid Applied Waterproofing Membrane

MedO Green Roof System

ProTherm G XPS X 300 and ULTRA Insulation Board

RockFace A2 Non-combustible Upstand Board

FOAMGLAS T3+ Insulation

The Whiteley redevelopment marks a major chapter in the transformation of Bayswater and Queensway, bringing life back to one of London’s most historically significant shopping landmarks. Originally opened in 1911, and later expanded in 1925, the Grade II listed Whiteley building had suffered from decades of ad hoc alterations that obscured its architectural heritage. Now, under the stewardship of Foster + Partners and Laing O’Rourke, the site is undergoing a remarkable regeneration – one that balances restoration with innovation, and heritage with contemporary needs.

At the heart of the project is a deep respect for the original architecture by John Belcher and John James Joass. The Queensway façade is being carefully restored, reinstating original features such as the cupola and upper floor glazing. The landmark’s historic grandeur is being revived not only in form but also in function, with the development poised to become a dynamic destination for both locals and visitors.

More than a refurbishment, The Whiteley has been reimagined as a world-class mixed-use development, offering 139 high-spec residences, 20 shops, cafes and restaurants, a luxury cinema, a premium gym, and the UK’s first Six Senses hotel and spa. Above the retail base, the development introduces a wide variety of residential layouts – including 1 to 4-bedroom apartments, duplexes, corner units and penthouses – many of which feature terraces or balconies. Each has been designed to harmonise with the building’s historic character while delivering contemporary comfort and quality.

The scheme centres around a newly created public courtyard, accessed via a reinstated retail arcade at the original entrance. This courtyard forms the social heart of the development, lined with eateries and shops, and enlivened by the presence of the cinema and leisure spaces. This carefully orchestrated public realm enhances pedestrian movement and draws light and activity into the building, fostering a renewed sense of place along Queensway.

Sustainability and ethical sourcing are at the core of the design. The Whiteley aspires to a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, with strict criteria for materials including timber, stone, glass, and marble — ensuring the building sets new benchmarks for environmental responsibility in historic retrofits.

To ensure the refurbishment lasts for decades, Radmat’s PermaQuik Hot-Melt Monolithic Waterproofing System was installed with a 40-year guarantee and BBA Certification for the “design life of the building on which it is incorporated.” Coupled with with Radmat’s Protherm G XPS X 300 SL insulation and EshaFlex bitumen membranes the construction team was confident that the podiums, terraces, green roofs and main roof areas would be durable and leak-free. Considering the building comprises 1 million sq feet it was essential for the roofs to be completely watertight.

In the harder to access heritage balconies, ReadySeal Liquid Applied Waterproofing Membrane was applied to ensure the balconies also remain secure to water ingress.

Crucially, the development has been designed to support and uplift the wider neighbourhood. Its blend of residential, retail, hotel and leisure use encourage constant footfall and diverse interactions across all hours of the day. The Six Senses hotel is conceived not just as an international destination, but as a hub for the local community – with open-access amenities like its bar, restaurant and wellness spaces helping to strengthen local identity and connection.

In sum, The Whiteley is not just a redevelopment – it is a reawakening of a London icon. Through architectural sensitivity, urban integration, and a forward-looking design ethos, it repositions Queensway as a vibrant and sustainable district once more. Radmat’s PermaQuik Hot Melt Monolithic Waterproofing system will ensure the building’s structure and roof areas will remain secure for many years to come.

 

Contact Details
For more information please call 01858 410372, email, or visit the Radmat website.

Stannah Lifts dumbwaiters enhances food service efficiency at Beverley Holidays

Building Products Index Ltd Lift Leave a Comment

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Beverley Holidays completes refurbishment of its restaurant with two dumbwaiters from Stannah Lifts, enhancing efficient operations at the on-site restaurant.

Open all year round, the Beverley Holidays in Devon welcomes guests seeking a fun-filled getaway with on-site entertainment, engaging daytime activities, a tasty range of food and drink options, swimming facilities, a wide-range of amenities, from EV charging points to laundry areas and stunning sea views of the South Devon coastline.

Works

Beverley Holidays has been a valued Stannah customer for two and a half decades, with Stannah Lifts maintaining their 50A model dumbwaiter, which had been in service for 24 years. As part of a recent kitchen refurbishment, Beverley Holidays chose to invest in more modern and reliable dumbwaiter models to improve food service and enhance overall operational efficiency.

Stannah Lifts worked alongside contractors and architects, Gutxi, to install two new dumbwaiters serving the kitchen on the ground floor and the restaurant on the newly extended first floor.

As this was a new installation, a prebuilt enclosure was constructed to house the lift and ensure it could be maintained over time. Once the installation was complete, Stannah returned to site to test, commission and UKCA mark the Microlift dumbwaiters, ensuring their safety for immediate operation.

The goal was to streamline the transit of food from the kitchen to the restaurant and enhance the guest experience, while working closely alongside the construction team and architects to ensure a smooth installation into both existing and new structures.

Challenge

Stannah Lifts attended an initial site visit and a detailed pre-order meeting with the construction team and architects to discuss the installation requirements and anticipated challenges.

One challenge was designing a dumbwaiter solution that would fit within a newly built enclosure attached to the side of the existing clubhouse. After comparing them with the actual built dimensions of the site, the dumbwaiter models originally envisaged for the project were found to be too wide to fit in the available enclosure space. Therefore, an alternative Microlift model with more compact dimensions was selected to ensure compatibility with the enclosure width.

Drainage systems and a mechanical cowling were also obstructing the proposed shaft location and needed to be rerouted and repositioned. The first-floor extension had to accommodate not only the two dumbwaiters but also provide adequate space for ongoing maintenance access. This involved close coordination with the site teams to ensure structural modifications, such as wall opening and shaft dimensions, were correctly executed.

The first-floor extension was revised to include sufficient space not just for the lifts, but for safe and practical access for future maintenance.

Solution

Stannah Lifts proposed the installation of two 50C dumbwaiters, which were better suited to fit the narrow shaft dimensions. These small service lifts are ideal for pubs, clubs and restaurant settings, enabling the efficient and safe movement of items between floors.

With an upgraded capacity of 100kg and reduced headroom of 2800mm, as opposed to the original 100B model specified which had a 3000mm headroom, this kitchen lift solution makes it easy to fit into the space available.

Built with removable stainless-steel shelf and infra-red heat lamps to keep food warm during transportation, the Microlifts are fully compliant with regulations, offering smooth operation rise and fall shutters fitted with safety locks.

The dumbwaiters installed in the restaurant are controlled with fully automatic push buttons at each entrance for ease of use.

Results
The two dumbwaiter service lifts were successfully installed and fully integrated into the extended structure on schedule. These Microlifts now play a vital role in minimising manual handling hazards and enhancing the efficiency of food service between the kitchen and restaurant, enabling quicker and more hygienic food transportation across floors.

Finished in a sleek grey baked enamel, the revised lift models fit precisely within the new shaft, with access points that complement the overall design.

Through close collaboration with the construction team and architects, from the planning phase to project completion, Stannah Lifts provided a bespoke solution that met all specifications and significantly improved the holiday park’s food service operations.

Stannah Lifts is proud to continue supporting Beverley Holidays with ongoing maintenance and repair services for the dumbwaiters. With twelve-month warranty and servicing included, including 24/7 emergency callout, Beverley Holidays can be confident that their dumbwaiter will remain in optimum condition, leading to fewer breakdowns, lower running costs and a reliable service overall.

Pete Allen, Platform Lift Sales Manager from Stannah Lifts Platform and Microlifts Division, said: “This project is a great example of how thoughtful planning and close collaboration can deliver a practical solution that enhance both operational efficiency and user experience. The successful integration of our dumbwaiters has transformed food service at the holiday park, and we’re proud to support their continued performance through our dedicated maintenance service.”

Gary Furneaux, Director from Beverley Holidays said: “The installation of the new dumbwaiters has made a significant difference to our kitchen and restaurant operations. Service is now faster, safer and more efficient, especially during busy periods. The team at Stannah Lifts were great to work with from start to finish, and their continued support through maintenance gives us real peace of mind.”

For more information, visit: www.stannahlifts.co.uk

Inspiring Facades to bring your vision to life

Building Products Index Ltd Facade Leave a Comment

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Cedral fibre cement facades offer the perfect solution for housebuilders. With a collection of 21 colours across four collections, you can design homes that reflect your vision offering a unique style and personality. Choosing the right materials and colour can enhance a properties charm and make a lasting impression. To find out more and to speak to us please click here.

Enhancing Safety and Natural Light with Filon’s Fixsafe at Wood Henry & Sons Farm

Building Products Index Ltd Rooflights Leave a Comment

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Project Overview

Filon, one of the UK’s market leading manufacturers of GRP rooflights, recently provided its innovative and patented rooflight replacement system, ‘Fixsafe’, for a project at Wood Henry & Sons Farm. The Filon Fixsafe system enables contractors to replace rooflights from inside the building, eliminating the inherent risks associated with accessing fragile roofs.

Wood Henry & Sons Farm, part of the esteemed Crown Estate, faced significant issues with its old and deteriorating GRP rooflights. Green & Heritage Roofing, a contractor based in Halifax had successfully used Fixsafe on previous projects and was confident in its ability to safely and effectively address the farm’s needs. In collaboration with SIG Roofing and Green & Heritage Roofing, Filon identified the specific profile required for the project and provided a comprehensive Fixsafe specification. This collaborative approach ensured that all project requirements were met with precision and efficiency.

Solution & Benefits

For this project, 22 No. Filon Fixsafe kits were supplied which included the new Big Six GRP rooflights, sealant and unique fasteners specifically designed for timber framed buildings. The new GRP rooflights were Filon DR (double reinforced) nominally 2.44kg/m2, providing extra reinforcement and enhanced strength along with an SAB Class 3, BROOF (t4) fire rating, ensuring compliance with building regulations and Filon Protect UV surface protection to provide long-term durability.

The patented Fixsafe system allowed for the replacement of the old rooflights entirely from within the building, not only minimising the risk to contractors but also reducing the need for extensive safety measures typically required for working at height on fragile roofs, making it a very cost-effective solution.

Filon Fixsafe offers several key benefits that made it the ideal solution for Green & Heritage Roofing at Wood Henry & Sons farm:

  • Safety: By replacing the rooflights from inside the building, Fixsafe eliminates the need to access fragile and dangerous roofs. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents and enhances overall site safety.
  • Efficiency: The system is designed for quick and easy installation, minimising disruption to the farm’s operations. The internal installation process is streamlined, reducing project timelines and labour costs.
  • Cost savings: Safe access and work equipment costs were greatly reduced as there was no need for:
    1. Edge protection scaffold
    2. Crawler boards
    3. Internal safety netting
  • Durability: Filon Protect UV surface protection to the weather face of the sheet provides long-term durability and expected life-span of more than 30 years.
  • Enhanced Natural Light: The natural lighting within the farm was dramatically improved with the new Filon GRP rooflights, creating a brighter, safer and more welcoming environment.
  • Compliance: The new GRP rooflights with a sheet of double reinforced nominally 2.44kg/m2 with SAB Class 3, BROOF (t4) fire ratings ensuring strength of sheet and conformity with Building Regulations.

Client Feedback

Chris Hopkins, Managing Director at Green & Heritage Roofing expressed his satisfaction with the Fixsafe system:

“When using the Filon Fixsafe system to replace the existing rooflights, it was like night and day. Wood Henry & Sons Farm commented that it was amazing the fact that before it was so dark in their barn, but now it looks like somebody has put bright lights on! Sanderson Brown, the architectural practice responsible for the project, was also really impressed with how the Fixsafe system worked and the difference that the new Filon GRP rooflights made to the building’s natural lighting.”

Conclusion

The successful installation using the patented Fixsafe rooflight replacement system at Wood Henry & Sons Farm highlights the product’s effectiveness in ensuring safety and improving natural lighting. This project demonstrates the significant benefits of using innovative solutions in building maintenance, setting a benchmark for future projects within the industry.

For further information, please see www.filon.co.uk or email to sales@filon.co.uk

Design for the future

Building Products Index Ltd Tile backer boards Leave a Comment

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Complying to current and future legislation, making buildings future-proof and carbon-neutral is a key concern for architects and clients today. Innovative solutions that last the lifetime of the building and reduce the pressure on the planet are now taking centre stage. However, these are not always new technologies or products – while some solutions directly tackle specific challenges, others are more systemic, helping to create the conditions under which all other solutions can be adopted at a greater scale and pace. Implementing complementary innovations together can provide far more significant outcomes than implementing them in isolation.

Protecting the fabric of the building with reliable waterproofing has always been vital, but now, NHBC’s Technical Guidance 9.2/06 ‘Substrates for tiling bath and shower enclosures, wet rooms and bathroom pods’ reinforces this. In essence, any new home whose foundations begin on or after 1st January 2025 in the UK, must comply with this guidance if an NHBC warranty is to be provided.

In short, magnesium oxide boards must not be used, and in wet rooms or bathrooms with power shower, there are strict requirements; only tile backerboards that hold technical approvals acceptable by NHBC can be used.

Critically, whatever the subsurface, all tanking solutions must have appropriate 3rd party certificates such as a European Technical Assessment (ETA) and the tile, adhesive and grout should be compatible with the selected waterproofing system.

Does your new build project have a bathroom or a wet room? wedi has you covered.

100% waterproof and directly tileable XPS boards and shower formers manufactured by wedi hold all required certificates to comply with NHBC’s new guidance; from Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) and A+ VOC label, through the European Technical Approval (ETA), to CE, UKCA and UKNI markings. Furthermore they also comply with Building Regulations section M4(2) and M4(3).

Using renowned, waterproof XPS tilebacker boards to waterproof floor and wall surfaces in wet rooms and bathrooms, not only reduces installation steps and hence minimises the risk of failure, but together with clever accessories and interlocking XPS components such as floor-level shower elements, benches, niches and ready-to-use partition walls, also provides a floor-to-ceiling, systemised waterproofing solution. When installed correctly, they last the lifetime of the building in which they are installed.

Since September 2021, wedi has been part of the Ardex Group and therefore compatible grouts and adhesives can also be provided under one comprehensive, 10-year product warranty. One manufacturer, one responsibility – everything under the tiles, from a single source – so that architects can stay focused on the design.

Product characteristics such as 133kg/m2 vertical weight-load capability make the wedi building board a universal solution for all types of tiles, natural stone and slab coverings. Regardless of the selected tile format/size, in conjunction with reinforcement plates, they hold larger items such as floating washbasins, doors and radiators, meaning that multifunctional partition walls can also be created quickly and easily, ready-to-tile the next day.

Another advantage is the low U-value of 0.036 W/mK, that contributes to the thermal insulation of the room from the inside, therefore contributing to the energy efficiency of the home. This makes them perfect to use beneath under-tile-heating (UTH) systems of all kinds.

In 2025, compliance with the Future Homes Standard will become mandatory; all new homes built from this year are to be future-proofed with low carbon heating and world-leading levels of energy efficiency. Carbon emissions should be reduced to 75-80% less than previously accepted.

Whilst wedi XPS elements do not directly tackle such challenges, they create the conditions, under which other solutions can be adopted easier and faster. By cutting back on installation steps, such as tanking or priming for example, they reduce the required interfaces on site and hence accelerate the project progress. What’s more, used as a waterproof insulation beneath heating systems, they prevent heat-escape and hence improve heating systems’ response time by up to a staggering 70%!

At the forefront of innovation since 1983, wedi is doing everything possible to support energy-efficient, future-proof bathrooms. The current rise of heat pump operated water heating systems prompted the development of the wedi PreLine building board for example. The factory-cut precise grooves greatly reduce the risk of the pipe runs being accidentally damaged as well as ensure the even placement of pipes as close to the surface as possible. It is equally suited to floor or wall applications.

Furthermore, wedi also offers a multitude of floor-level shower elements in different formats -whether it be linear or point drainage, a standard, rectangular or a round, maybe a shell-shape with matching free-standing walls, the wedi Fundo range has the right product for your project. Why not check out the newest member of the range? The Fundo Flex provides an entirely new concept for shower design – it fully adapts to requirements, allowing for an exacting design without the drawbacks. Drain location as a prime concern in shower design? It is now a thing of the past.

www.wedi.net

HASTINGS WINDOWS AND EUROCELL TRANSFORM STUDENT HALLS INTO HIGH-SPEC COASTAL HOMES

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, PVC-U, PVC-U, Windows Leave a Comment

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  • Performance: EPC B ratings with U-values down to 1.2 W/m²K, meeting Future Homes standards.
  • Sustainability: ~40% recycled content, lower embodied carbon, and fully recyclable at end of life.
  • Value without compromise: 30–50% cost savings versus aluminium, while meeting all specification requirements.

Specialist PVC-U manufacturer and installer Hastings Windows has unveiled its latest transformation project in collaboration with Eurocell, the UK’s leading manufacturer and recycler of PVC-U windows and doors and supplier of building materials.

Station Plaza, a flagship 103-unit residential development in Hastings, was originally earmarked for student accommodation. But fresh plans to transform the site into modern, high-spec homes for long-term renters meant a full window and door upgrade, with strict requirements for aesthetics, energy performance and safety.

The upgrade presented a number of technical challenges, including:

  • Two roundel buildings of 4 and 5 storeys with complex façade geometry and corner angles of up to 170 degrees
  • External insulation build-up requiring extended cills and recessed frame positioning
  • Installation of glazed units on a live site at height, with the tallest building reaching 7 storeys
  • A need to complement the style of the adjacent college campus

To meet these demands, Hastings Windows, a Eurocell fabrication partner for more than 20 years, proposed a full switch to the Eurocell Logik PVC-U solution.

Aluminium had originally been specified, but the move to PVC-U offered significant cost savings, with PVC fittings often 30-50% cheaper while still meeting both thermal performance and energy efficiency targets.

PVC-U profiles offer sustainability advantages too; it typically has lower embodied carbon than aluminium in production, particularly when recycled content is included. Each Logik window system includes around 40% recycled plastic as part of Eurocell’s closed-loop manufacturing process, minimising environmental impact without knocking performance.

The Logik range features a chamfered profile for a fresh, contemporary look. Tilt and turn functionality helps improve ventilation as well as access for cleaning – an essential in high-rise environments. 225mm cills were used throughout the project to accommodate the thick external insulation while ensuring weatherproofing integrity.

All the residential units were awarded EPC B ratings, with the windows achieving U-values as low as 1.2 W/m² to align with the Future Homes standard. The superior insulation offered by the Logik windows will help cut energy consumption and consumer bills.

Eurocell provided technical support throughout the project, assisting with structural calculations, drawings, wind load considerations, and compliance checks.

Hastings Windows director Tony Lee said:

“From the outset, it was clear that this project would push our design and manufacturing capabilities. By switching to Eurocell’s Logik system, we were able to maintain the architectural intent – it’s a showcase of what well-specified PVC-U can achieve.”

Pierre Lombard, Joint Managing director at developer and construction manager Purple Pepper Ltd added:

“For a development of this size and specification, it was essential to find a solution that could meet our high design standards and energy performance targets. By partnering with Hastings Windows and specifying Eurocell’s Logik system, we delivered a clean finish that blends sleek aesthetics with excellent thermal performance.”

David Woolley, Area Sales Manager at Eurocell, commented:

“The transformation from the old site to the new has been incredible, not just from an aesthetics perspective, but on paper too. The thermal efficiency, outstanding acoustic performance, robust security and long-term durability of the Logik window range provides real-world value at every level.”

Collaboration has been at the core of the project. Following the success at Station Plaza, Hastings Windows has been appointed by Purple Pepper for its next luxury development in West Sussex for four bespoke five-bedroom homes, beginning what both firms hope will be a long and successful partnership.

For more information on how Eurocell can assist you in delivering your next project, please contact the team: newbuild@eurocell.co.uk, 0870 120 3003.